Antithymocyte globulin-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome after renal transplantation: a case report

Guo-Wei Tu1, Min-Jie Ju, Ming Xu

  • 1Department of Anesthesiology and Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.

Antithymocyte globulin (ATG) has long been used for immune-induction and anti-rejection treatments for solid organ transplantations. To date, few cases of ATG-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) have been published. Here, we present a case of ARDS caused by a single low-dose of ATG in a renal transplant recipient and the subsequent treatments administered. Although the patient suffered from ARDS and delayed graft function, he was successfully treated. We emphasize that the presence of such complications should be considered when unexplained respiratory distress occurs. Early use of corticosteroids, adjustment of immunosuppressive regimens, and conservative fluid management, as well as empiric antimicrobial therapies, may be effective strategies for the treatment of ARDS caused by ATG.

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